Safari Through Neretva River Delta

OVERVIEW

Behold the natural beauty of the Neretva River Delta while cruising through its canals and estuaries in a traditional wooden boat known as a lađa. The valley is so fertile that it is often called Croatia’s California, a reference to the many surrounding farms and orchards. Because the wetlands are considered internationally important, much of the them fall under the protection of the Ramsar Convention and must be conserved for perpetuity. As a result, wildlife thrives, especially birds. You may spot white pelicans, spoonbills, pied avocets and oystercatchers among the many water birds. Each year, ornithologists record species new to the river delta, a confirmation that the Ramsar protection has been a success. Before emptying into the Adriatic Sea, the Neretva River feeds Lake Kuti. After a welcome drink at a riverside tavern, you will dine there, most likely on peka, a traditional dish slowly cooked under a dome-shaped lid.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise through the Neretva River Delta wetlands, an environmentally protected area.
• Observe the water birds that flock to the wetlands in great numbers.
• Dine at a lakeside tavern on the traditional Croatian dish peka.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.